In accounting, contingent liabilities are liabilities that may be incurred by an entity depending on the outcome of an uncertain future event[1] such as the outcome of a pending lawsuit.
These liabilities are not recorded in a company's accounts and shown in the balance sheet when both probable and reasonably estimable as 'contingency' or 'worst case' financial outcome.
A footnote to the balance sheet may describe the nature and extent of the contingent liabilities.
The likelihood of loss is described as probable, reasonably possible, or remote.
According to International Monetary Fund's Government Finance Statistics Manual, contingent liabilities shall be classified as:[2]